Specialist English Teacher (Post 16)

At West SILC, we believe English is about far more than qualifications. It is about helping young people find their voice, communicate with confidence, advocate for themselves, access employment, build relationships, and live as independently as possible.

We are looking for an inspiring, creative and passionate English Specialist Teacher to join our Post-16 Powerhouse department in Farsley, where we are transforming what is possible for young adults with special educational needs.

Our learners follow our innovative Powerhouse Life-Changing Curriculum, designed around two key strands:

Our innovative curriculum is split into two dynamic strands:
🟡 Learning to Live - developing communication, independence, personal safety, community participation and life skills.
🟡 Learning to Earn - preparing learners for employment through vocational learning, enterprise projects, work placements and supported internships.

Why teach English at West SILC?

✅ Deliver English in meaningful, real-world contexts that make a genuine difference to learners' lives
✅ Teach Functional Skills English from Entry Level 1 to Level 2, alongside personalised communication programmes and English elements of Personal Progress qualifications
✅ Develop literacy through practical activities such as job applications, interviews, travel training, community learning, enterprise projects and independent living skills
✅ Support learners to become confident communicators through AAC, symbols, signing, assistive technology and personalised communication systems

✅ Work within state-of-the-art simulated learning environments including The Hub and The Foundry, where literacy is brought to life through authentic experiences

✅ Join a passionate, innovative and supportive team dedicated to preparing young people for adulthood

What we’re looking for:

✔ A qualified teacher (QTS/QTLS) who believes in educating for life, not just lessons
✔ A passionate English specialist who believes literacy can transform lives

✔ Experience teaching English, Functional Skills English, GCSE English or literacy programmes

✔ A creative practitioner who can make English engaging, relevant and accessible for learners with SEND

✔ Experience of adapting learning for learners with MLD, SLD, autism, SEMH and communication needs

✔ Someone who understands that communication, self-advocacy and literacy are essential foundations for independence and employment

✔ A team player who builds strong relationships with learners, families, employers and professionals

In return, we offer:

A warm, inclusive and values-driven school community

Extensive CPD and career development opportunities

Opportunities to shape and develop our Post-16 English curriculum

Access to specialist therapists and multidisciplinary teams

State-of-the-art learning environments

A strong, supportive team who care deeply about each other and our learners

The opportunity to make a life-changing difference every day

Visiting the PLC Pathway.

View the Powerhouse Life Changing pathway video on our website - PLC Pathway — West SILC

We think it is important for prospective candidates to visit our PLC Pathway, this is a very unique setting with learner independence and confidence truly at the heart of everything we do.

To book an appointment on one of the below dates please contact Rob Lakewood by leaving a message with the school office - 0113 386 2450 or email:

rob.lakewood@westsilc.org

Wednesday 10th June 11am

Monday 15th June 9:30am

Wednesday 24th June 11am

Address: Springfield Mills, Bagley Lane, Pudsey LS28 5LY

West SILC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We promote diversity and want a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds. An enhanced DBS check is required for appointment to this post.

Applications are preferred to be submitted via My New Term (West SILC)

Closing date: 12 noon on Thursday 25th June (please note we may interview strong candidates before the closing date)

Interviews will be held week beginning Monday 6th July